Not so Relaxed...

So you've made the conscious decision to go natural, now what??
It's time to transition. What does transition mean? Transitioning is when you decide to no longer alter your new growth with relaxers or chemicals, you will have to transition from relaxed or straight hair to natural. For some the whole idea of transitioning isn't easy, but for others the decision was made for them when relaxers caused there hair to shed and fall out. The transitioning period is probably the most frustrating part of being natural. I've seen women have doubts or lose patience and say they were going back to the "creamy crack". They find that as their natural hair is growing, they can't treat their hair as if they still have a relaxer. So, their whole mind set has to change. Also, having to deal with two different textures during the transition can be enough to make you relapse. 
Now that you're in the transitioning period, how long does it last?
That's totally up to you. I transitioned for maybe 4 or 5 months and got all my relaxer cut out. Doing this is called The Big Chop or BC in the natural hair world. This is ultimately the easiest way to go instead of fighting with the two different textures. Now depending on how much new growth you have a BC could result in either shaving your head or sporting a twa (teeny weeny afro).
The other way to go is to gradually grow the relaxer out and cut a little at a time. This method requires a little bit more work than the BC, but some women don't want to take such a big step. In this case you can choose protective hair styles such as weaves, wigs or braids. If you choose to go this route, make sure you are cutting the relaxer a little at a time, because having two different textures will do more harm than good. You've got the new hair and the relaxed hair fighting against each and the line where they meet is the weakest part of your hair, which is where it will break. However, it is possible to minimize breakage by learning proper combing techniques and with product. I know women who have transitioned for a whole year with great results.
Transitioning doesn't have to be hard. All you need is a little patience and persistence. I know you may go through doubts, frustration and even fear, but hang in there. You'll soon experience excitement once you see those beautiful  coils and curls.